THE Cabinet did not discuss the position of Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz following his resignation from UMNO and stated intention to join PKR, according to Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
At the press conference today, Fahmi confirmed that the matter was not raised during the weekly Cabinet meeting.
“It was not brought up in Cabinet,” he said succinctly when asked whether UMNO’s demand to reclaim the ministerial post held by Tengku Zafrul was addressed.
Tengku Zafrul’s recent announcement that he was stepping down from UMNO and seeking to join the ruling Pakatan Harapan party PKR sparked criticism from UMNO leaders. UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has since demanded that the Cabinet seat be returned to the party in light of Tengku Zafrul’s defection.
Despite the political tension, there has been no indication from the Prime Minister or Cabinet on any immediate changes to Tengku Zafrul’s position.
Separately, when asked to comment on Malaysia’s hosting of the 46th ASEAN Summit last week, Fahmi said the event was well received by participating heads of state and government.
“The leaders were very pleased with what Malaysia had prepared as host,” he said.
He added that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is currently considering how best to convey appreciation to the delegates. We leave it to the Prime Minister to announce how he wishes to extend his gratitude.”
Fahmi also noted that preparations are now underway for the 47th ASEAN Summit, which Malaysia is scheduled to host in October.
MCMC to clamp down on online vape sales
Separately, Fahmi said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will begin tracking and investigating the online sale of vape and e-cigarette products, following Cabinet-level discussions on growing health concerns and increased restrictions imposed by several states, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced today.
Speaking at his weekly press conference, Fahmi said the issue had been brought up during the Cabinet meeting and is currently under active review by the Ministry of Health (MoH).
“While the regulation of vape and e-cigarette use falls under the purview of the Health Ministry, I have instructed MCMC to examine the widespread sale of these products on digital platforms,” he said.
“We have found that most of these transactions are taking place through social media applications such as Facebook and WhatsApp. Any enforcement action will undoubtedly involve the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN),” he added.
Fahmi also stressed that MCMC will be responsible for monitoring how such products are advertised and sold on digital channels, particularly those targeting children and families.
“MCMC will prepare a detailed report on this matter and the Communications Ministry will table it before the Cabinet for further deliberation,” he said.
The minister reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the MoH and KPDN to ensure a safer online ecosystem, especially in response to the presence of synthetic substances found in certain vape products.
“We want to make sure that social media platforms are not used irresponsibly to promote or sell products that pose health risks, especially to young users,” Fahmi said.
The move comes as several Malaysian states tighten regulations on vaping amid rising public health concerns, with some state governments moving towards full bans. - June 5, 2025
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